NFL trade deadline winners, losers: 49ers strike late deal
Dallas fails to make a splash; Lions gain a defensive powerhous
The 2024 NFL trade deadline has officially closed, marking the last chance for teams to either shed underperforming players or add crucial talent for playoff runs.
In the NFC, the Detroit Lions strengthened their defense by adding a standout pass rusher, while the Dallas Cowboys made a move that might not provide much impact. Meanwhile, AFC teams mostly wrapped up deals before the Tuesday cutoff, with three contenders in the AFC North joining the action.
Here’s a breakdown of the 2024 deadline’s winners and losers:
WINNER: Lions find replacement for Aidan Hutchinson
With Aidan Hutchinson sidelined for an extended time — though he may return if Detroit advances in the playoffs — head coach Dan Campbell acquired Za’Darius Smith to fortify the defense. Smith, formerly with the struggling Cleveland Browns, was a top pass-rushing option on the market. The Lions traded a 2025 fifth-round and 2026 sixth-round pick for Smith, receiving a 2026 seventh-round pick in return. The 32-year-old on an expiring contract has five sacks this season. Detroit’s low-cost deal brings high potential rewards.
LOSER: Cowboys’ trade efforts fall short
With a 3-5 record and Dak Prescott potentially sidelined for weeks, the Cowboys face a challenging path. Dallas needed offensive firepower and defensive depth but only added wide receiver Jonathan Mingo. The 2023 second-round pick has underperformed, totaling 43 catches for 418 yards as a rookie and managing only 121 yards this season. Dallas missed out on higher-profile targets, like Diontae Johnson, and Mingo’s limited production does little to shift the team’s prospects.
WINNER: AFC North contenders make moves
With the Browns seemingly out, Baltimore, Pittsburgh, and Cincinnati remain in contention. Each team strengthened their roster on deadline day, with the Bengals acquiring running back Khalil Herbert from Chicago in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick. The Steelers made two moves, adding receiver Mike Williams from the Jets and edge rusher Preston Smith. Baltimore added cornerback Tre’Davious White, receiving a 2027 seventh-round pick from the Rams in exchange for a 2026 seventh-round pick.
LOSER: Saints lose key player
The Saints’ early 2-0 start crumbled with seven straight losses, leading to the firing of head coach Dennis Allen. Beyond on-field struggles, the Saints are mired in salary cap challenges that may force more player exits. This began with the trade of cornerback Marshon Lattimore to the Washington Commanders along with a 2025 fifth-round pick. In return, New Orleans received a 2025 third-, fourth-, and sixth-round pick. New Orleans may continue this pattern of trading stars for draft picks.
WINNER: 49ers keep busy
The 49ers, under Kyle Shanahan, tend to make at least one trade before the deadline, and this year was no exception. San Francisco traded a 2026 seventh-round pick to Houston for defensive tackle Khalil Davis, who has familiarity with the 49ers’ system through former defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans. Davis may not make an immediate impact as Chase Young did last year, but his arrival bolsters a defensive line missing Javon Hargrave. Though the 49ers didn’t add a wide receiver following Brandon Aiyuk’s ACL injury, Deebo Samuel, Jauan Jennings, and rookies Ricky Pearsall and Jacob Cowing should step up.